CREEHS
Photo of children at the Ben Samuels Children Center

Center-based Programs

Welcome to Grow NJ Kids Rating at CREEHS!

Please note: As of January 31, 2026, all center-based programs (i.e., private, NJDOE public preschool, NAEYC-accredited, Head Start) must submit for rating using the 2025 Revised Grow NJ Kids (GNJK) Quality Standards. The 2015 Grow NJ Kids Standards have been retired, and program submissions using the 2015 standards will not be accepted.

Note: Ratings eligibility requirements and processes vary by program type. Additional information can be found in the Grow NJ Kids Rating Protocol for Center-based Programs.

To initiate an Official GNJK rating with the 2025 Revised Standards:

  1. Complete the Star Rating Readiness Checklist.
  2. Upload the following documentation to the NJCCIS File Cabinet:
    • Evidence for all required and optional GNJK Quality Standards
    • Staff list including each staff member’s:
      • Hire date
      • NJCCIS ID
      • Role
      • Full-time or part-time status
    • List of dates of birth for all children enrolled in each Infant and Toddler classroom  (format: MM/DD/YY)
    • Classroom schedules for all classrooms at the program
  3. Complete the “File for Rating” process via the Grow NJ Kids panel in NJCCIS
  4. Submit the Two-Month Observation Window Request Form to request your preferred two-month observation window
  5. Notify the GNJK Rating Team by emailing GNJKRating@montclair.edu. Include the following in your email:
    • Total number of Infant/Toddler and Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten classrooms in the program building
    • Indicate whether any classrooms are self-contained

Rating Resources and Guidance Documents: